Buoyant UAV Search and Rescue System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current search and rescue UAV systems do not have a buoyant UAV that can serve as a flotation device and autonomously track a wearable emergency device, lacking the capability to transmit an SOS signal and provide visual assistance in man-overboard situations.
Innovation Solution
A buoyant UAV with a motor and propeller system, equipped with a camera, GPS, EPIRB, and transmitter/receiver for manual or autonomous flight, capable of landing on water, transmitting distress signals, and featuring flashing lights and a basket or harness for swimmer recovery, which can autonomously follow the path of a boat and communicate with a wearable device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a UAV is used for search and rescue operations, then it can quickly cover large areas and provide bird's eye view, but it cannot serve as a flotation device for swimmers in distress
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV is designed with a buoyant body that enables it to perform multiple functions: aerial search and rescue monitoring, and water-based flotation support for distressed swimmers. The buoyant body allows the UAV to land on water and serve as a life preserver, combining aerial and aquatic rescue capabilities in a single system.
2Measurement precision
If traditional rescue systems are used, then they can detect swimmers in distress, but they lack the capability to autonomously track and follow the rescue path
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs wearable emergency devices that automatically detect distress situations and trigger autonomous UAV response. The UAV autonomously tracks the distress signal, follows the boat's path in reverse, and navigates to the swimmer without requiring continuous manual control, enabling self-service rescue operations.
3Ease of operation
If a UAV drops a flotation device, then it can provide assistance, but it does not transmit SOS signals or provide visual assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The UAV integrates multiple rescue functions into a single platform: it carries and drops flotation devices, transmits SOS distress signals via EPIRB, provides visual assistance through flashing lights and spotlights, and enables two-way communication. This merging of functions ensures comprehensive rescue support without requiring multiple separate systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient search and rescue operations by providing a flotation device, transmitting distress signals, and autonomously tracking and recovering swimmers, enhancing the chances of timely assistance in emergency situations.
Implementation Method 1
a buoyant body member
Data Source
AI summary
A search and rescue drone system includes a buoyant body member, a frame attached to the buoyant body member for carrying a motor and propeller, and an electronic array including a camera, GPS, an EPIRB radio distress beacon, and a transmitter/receiver for remote control flying the drone and communicating with an operator. The search and rescue drone may be flown manually, or may have some autonomous flight and locator capabilities. For example, in one embodiment, the search and rescue drone may be programmed to simply fly to the location of an electronic wearable device, like a bracelet, that is worn by a man overboard. In another embodiment, the search and rescue drone includes a basket, harness, or other means for actually recovering a swimmer in distress, and flying that person back to safety on a ship or on shore.